U.S. patent number 10,768,676 [Application Number 15/698,183] was granted by the patent office on 2020-09-08 for docking systems and methods for electronic devices.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Intel Corporation. The grantee listed for this patent is Intel Corporation. Invention is credited to Eduardo Escamilla, Baomin Liu, James Utz.
View All Diagrams
United States Patent |
10,768,676 |
Liu , et al. |
September 8, 2020 |
Docking systems and methods for electronic devices
Abstract
Illustrative examples include a docking system for a foldable
electronic device such as a 2-in-1 convertible computer. The
docking system may include a housing having an engagement surface
to interface with a portion of the foldable electronic device when
the foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the docking
system. The engagement surface may include a vent opening arranged
to direct airflow in between a first portion and a second portion
of the plurality of portions, and a separator to maintain
separation between the first portion and the second portion when
the foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the
engagement surface. A blower coupled to the housing may supply
airflow through the vent opening.
Inventors: |
Liu; Baomin (Austin, TX),
Escamilla; Eduardo (Round Rock, TX), Utz; James (Austin,
TX) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Intel Corporation |
Santa Clara |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Intel Corporation (Santa Clara,
CA)
|
Family
ID: |
1000005042608 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/698,183 |
Filed: |
September 7, 2017 |
Prior Publication Data
|
|
|
|
Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20190072999 A1 |
Mar 7, 2019 |
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F
1/203 (20130101); G06F 1/1632 (20130101); G06F
1/1615 (20130101); G06F 1/1641 (20130101); H05K
7/20209 (20130101); H05K 7/20145 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G06F
1/16 (20060101); H05K 7/20 (20060101); G06F
1/20 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;361/676-678,679.46-679.54,688-723
;165/80.1-80.5,104.33,185,80.1-80.3
;174/15.1-15.3,16.1-16.3,547,548,252 ;257/712-722,E23.088
;24/453,458-459 ;454/184 ;312/236 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Other References
Fenix, Kevin, "SVALT D2 High Performance Cooling Dock Press
Release", fanboynation, (Oct. 25, 2016), 3 pgs. cited by
applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Pape; Zachary
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Schwegman Lundberg & Woessner,
P.A.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A docking system for a foldable electronic device, the foldable
electronic device having a plurality of portions that are foldable
with respect to each other, the docking system comprising: a
housing having an engagement surface to interface with a portion of
the foldable electronic device when the foldable electronic device
is operably engaged with the docking system, the engagement surface
including: a vent opening arranged to direct airflow in between a
first portion and a second portion of the plurality of portions
when the foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the
engagement surface; and a separator configured to be disposed
between the first portion and the second portion of the foldable
electronic device to maintain a separation between the first
portion and the second portion when the foldable electronic device
is operably engaged with the engagement surface, wherein the
separator maintains the separation allowing air flow from the vent
opening through the separation between the first portion and the
second portion; and a blower coupled to the housing to supply
airflow through the vent opening.
2. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the separator is wedge
shaped.
3. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface
extends from a first end portion to a second end portion, and
wherein the separator is located proximate the first end portion,
and the vent opening is located in between the first end portion
and the second end portion.
4. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the separator comprises
the vent opening.
5. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface
has a first width at a first end portion and a second width at a
second end portion, and wherein the first width is larger than at
the second width.
6. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface
receives the foldable electronic device in a mostly open mode, in a
range in between 85 percent open and 99 percent open.
7. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface is
arranged to accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a
standing book mode.
8. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface is
arranged to accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a
tent mode.
9. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the separator is located
in a recess of the engagement surface.
10. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the separator comprises
a separator vent opening.
11. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface
further comprises a seal around at least a portion of a perimeter
of the engagement surface.
12. The docking system of claim 1, further comprising a second
separator to separate the second portion and a third portion of the
plurality of portions when the foldable electronic device is
operably engaged with the engagement surface.
13. The docking system of claim 1, wherein the engagement surface
comprises a longitudinal recess that extends from a first end
portion to a second end portion, wherein the separator and the vent
opening are positioned in the recess, and wherein the separator is
located proximate the first end portion, and the vent opening is
located in between the first end portion and the second end
portion.
14. The docking system of claim 13, wherein the longitudinal recess
has a first width at a first end portion and a second width at a
second end portion, wherein the first width is larger than the
second width.
15. A method of docking a foldable electronic device, the foldable
electronic device having a plurality of portions that are foldable
with respect to each other, the method comprising: receiving, at an
engagement surface, the foldable electronic device, wherein
receiving the foldable electronic device having a plurality of
portions includes maintaining a separation space between at least a
first portion and a second portion of the plurality of portions,
wherein maintaining the separation space between the first portion
and second portion includes disposing a separator between the first
portion and the second portion of the foldable electronic device
and allowing air flow from a vent opening through the separation
space between the first portion and the second portion; and blowing
air into the separation space between the first portion and the
second portion.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein maintaining the separation
space between the first portion and the second portion is provided
by the separator, and wherein the vent opening is located in the
engagement surface.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein maintaining the separation
space between the first portion and the second portion is provided
by a wedge-shaped separator.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the foldable electronic device
comprises two display surfaces and two non-display surfaces, and
wherein receiving, at the engagement surface, the foldable
electronic device, includes receiving the two non-display surfaces
of the foldable electronic device in a generally open mode where
the two non-display surfaces generally face and oppose each other,
and the two display surfaces generally face away from each other,
and wherein the non-display surfaces are sandwiched in between the
two display surfaces.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein maintaining the separation
space comprises maintaining a separation space between two
non-display surfaces of the foldable electronic device that are
generally facing each other.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein receiving the foldable
electronic device includes receiving the foldable electronic device
in a mostly open mode, in a range in between 85 percent open and 99
percent open.
21. The method of claim 15, wherein receiving the foldable
electronic device includes receiving the foldable electronic device
in a range between 330 degrees and 359 degrees open.
22. The method of claim 15, wherein maintaining the separation
space comprises maintaining a separation distance between two
surfaces of the foldable electronic device at a first end portion
of the engagement surface, wherein the separation distance is in a
range between 1 millimeter and 50 millimeters.
23. The method of claim 15, wherein maintaining the separation
space comprises maintaining two surfaces of the foldable electronic
device apart in a range between 1 degree and 30 degrees apart.
24. At least one non-transitory machine-readable medium including
instructions to operate a docking system for a foldable electronic
device, the foldable electronic device having a plurality of
portions that are foldable with respect to each other, and the
instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive presence information regarding a presence of the foldable
electronic device at an engagement surface, the engagement surface
having a separator to maintain a separation space between a first
portion and a second portion of the plurality of portions when the
foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the engagement
surface, and a vent opening that is arranged to direct airflow into
the separation space, wherein the separator maintains the
separation allowing air flow from the vent opening through the
separation space between the first portion and the second portion,
wherein the separator is configured to be disposed between the
first portion and the second portion of the foldable electronic
device; and operate a blower, based on the presence information, to
blow air through the vent opening and into the separation space
between the first portion and the second portion.
25. The at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium of
claim 24, the instructions further causing the docking system to
receive temperature information related to the foldable electronic
device and, based on the temperature information, to control
operation of the blower.
26. The at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium of
claim 24, the instructions further causing the docking system to
receive blower information, and based on the blower information, to
control operation of the blower.
27. The at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium of
claim 24, the instructions further causing the docking system to
electrically connect to the foldable electronic device.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to
docking systems that support foldable electronic devices, such as
2-in-1 convertible computers, single flexible screen devices, or
folding multi-screen computers. More particularly, this disclosure
may be applied to docking systems that facilitate cooling.
BACKGROUND
Laptops provide convenient portable computing, however, when a user
attempts to use a laptop in their office, such as in conjunction
with an external monitor, mouse and keyboard, the laptop may not
cool as efficiently as a desktop computer. This may lead to poorer
performance in a laptop than in a desktop.
Increased cooling is especially helpful, for example, when editing
photos and videos, playing video games, rendering models, or
running other high-demand applications.
Some docking systems use fans to cool a laptop that is docked. Such
docking systems are designed to cool the laptop when the laptop is
docked and oriented in the fully closed mode. These docking systems
provide additional cooling over the fan provided in the laptop
alone to improve performance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like
numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like
numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different
instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally,
by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various examples
discussed in the present document.
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example of a foldable
electronic device that may be used with docking systems disclosed
herein. The foldable electronic device is shown as a 2-in 1
convertible computer depicted in a 180 degree open mode.
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the foldable electronic device of
FIG. 1A that may be used with the docking systems disclosed herein.
The foldable electronic device is depicted in a 360 degree open
mode (e.g., fully open, tablet mode).
FIG. 2 is a side view schematic showing an example of the foldable
electronic device of FIGS. 1A and 1B if it was docked in a
traditional laptop-style docking system with the foldable
electronic device in the fully open tablet mode of FIG. 1B. FIG. 2
also shows the airflow delivered by the traditional laptop-style
docking system.
FIG. 3 is a general side view schematic showing an example
orientation of a foldable electronic device and airflow delivered
from an illustrative docking system to the foldable electronic
device, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an illustrative docking system, in
accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the illustrative docking system of
FIG. 4A, showing an internal view of an illustrative blower
arrangement.
FIG. 4C is a side perspective view of the illustrative docking
system of FIG. 4A, including an example foldable electronic device
positioned at an engagement surface, in accordance with at least
one example.
FIG. 4D is a close-up side perspective view of region B of the
illustrative docking system and foldable electronic device of FIG.
4C, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 4E is a top view of the illustrative docking system and
foldable electronic device of FIG. 4C, in accordance with at least
one example.
FIG. 4F is a side view of the illustrative docking system and
foldable electronic device of FIG. 4C, in accordance with at least
one example.
FIG. 5 is a side view schematic of another illustrative docking
system, showing the foldable electronic device of FIGS. 1A and 1B
operably engaged with the docking system, in accordance with at
least one example.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view schematic of another illustrative
docking system, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 7A is a top view schematic of another illustrative engagement
surface, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 7B is a general schematic of a cross-section along line A-A'
of FIG. 7A, showing the foldable electronic device of FIGS. 1A and
1B positioned in a tent mode at an illustrative docking system
having the engagement surface of FIG. 7A, in accordance with at
least one example.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example of an example tri-fold
type foldable electronic device that may be used with illustrative
docking systems disclosed herein. The foldable electronic device is
depicted in a 180 degree open mode.
FIG. 9 is a top view schematic of an illustrative engagement
surface showing an illustrative positioning for a foldable
electronic device, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 10 is a top view schematic of a second illustrative engagement
surface showing an illustrative positioning for a foldable
electronic device, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 11 is a top view schematic of a third illustrative engagement
surface showing an illustrative positioning for a foldable
electronic device, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method of cooling a foldable
electronic device to a docking system, such as the docking systems
of FIGS. 3, 4A-4F, 5, 6, 7A-7B and 8-11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
As previously described, laptops provide convenient portable
computing, however, when a user attempts to use a laptop in their
office, such as in conjunction with an external monitor, mouse and
keyboard, the laptop may not cool as efficiently as a desktop
computer. This may lead to poorer performance in a laptop than in a
desktop.
Some docking systems use fans to cool a laptop that is docked. Such
docking systems are designed to cool the laptop when the laptop is
docked and oriented in the fully closed mode. These docking systems
provide additional cooling over the fan provided in the laptop
alone to improve performance.
In addition to laptops for portable computing, foldable electronic
devices such as 2-in-1 convertible computers have been introduced
more recently. One difference between some laptops and some 2-in-1
convertible computers is that, while laptops generally have a fan,
2-in-1 convertible computers often do not. Instead, 2-in-1
computers tend to rely entirely on free convection for cooling. A
challenge of cooling some foldable electronic devices, and 2-in-1
convertible computers in particular, is the absence of a blower
(e.g., fan, compressor or other airflow providing device) in these
foldable electronic devices; instead, these devices tend to rely
entirely on free convection for cooling. As shown in FIG. 2, if a
2-in-1 convertible computer is docked in a traditional laptop type
docking system in the fully open tablet mode (e.g., 360.degree.
open), the electrical components that benefit the most from cooling
may end up arranged such that they are stuck in-between the two
halves (e.g. portions, displays) of the computer resulting the
lowest level of cooling.
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example of 2-in-1 computer
(e.g., a foldable electronic device 100) that may be used with
docking systems disclosed herein. The foldable electronic device
100 may include a plurality of portions that are foldable (e.g.,
hingeable, bendable) with respect to each other. As shown in FIG.
1A the plurality of portions include a first portion 110 and a
second portion 120 coupled to one another at a fold 102. The
foldable electronic device 100 is depicted in a 180 degree open
mode. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the foldable electronic
device 100 of FIG. 1A but oriented in a 360 degree fully open
tablet mode. In the fully open tablet mode, display surfaces (e.g.,
screens) 112, 122 may both face outward, sandwiching the
electronics and non-display surfaces 114, 124 therebetween. This
arrangement makes the fully open tablet mode the most difficult to
cool.
FIG. 2 is a side view schematic showing an example of the airflow
180 delivered to the foldable electronic device 100 of FIGS. 1A and
1B when positioned on a traditional laptop-style docking system
with the foldable electronic device 100 in the fully open tablet
mode of FIG. 1B. Conventional docking systems fail to direct
airflow to the areas of some foldable electronic devices, such as a
2-in-1 convertible computers, where cooling is most useful. This is
particularly true when the foldable electronic device 100 is
positioned on a docking system in the fully open tablet mode (FIG.
1B).
As shown in FIG. 2, the airflow 180 delivered by a traditional
laptop style docking system, when used with a 2-in-1 convertible
computer in the fully open table mode, directs the airflow along
the display surfaces 112, 122. However, when these foldable
electronic devices 100 are in the fully open tablet mode, the hot
electrical components 130 are stuck in-between the first and second
portions 110, 120 of the foldable electronic device resulting in
the poorest cooling, which often results in low performance. The
lack of a gap between the first portion 110 and the second portion
120 of the foldable electronic device 100 results in inefficient
cooling with only the outside (e.g., display surfaces 112, 122)
accessible to the cooling airflow 180. In conventional docking
systems the surfaces and components that benefit the most from
cooling do not receive the airflow 180.
Example docking systems herein provide improved performance for
foldable electronic devices. The docking systems enable foldable
electronic devices to have improved cooling, allowing them to
perform more like a personal computer (PC) that has a fan, even
when the foldable electronic device is docked in the fully open
tablet mode (FIG. 1B). The docking systems and methods may include
an engagement surface having a separator arranged to increase
airflow to portions of the foldable electronic device 100 that need
cooling the most. The advantages of the improved docking systems
and methods may include: better performance of the foldable
electronic device, improved durability of the electrical components
130 and the ability to use less expensive processors.
While the examples described herein generally discuss foldable
electronic devices such as 2-in-1 convertible computers, the same
concepts may also be applied to any other computer such as:
tri-fold type computers, laptops, mobile devices, tablets, or any
other foldable or bendable electronic device having any number of
hinges, folds, bends, portions, cases or covers.
As used herein "air" may be atmospheric air, but is not limited as
such. Air may include any suitable fluid including an inert gas,
any other gas or combination of gases. In addition, the air may be
at room temperature or modified to another temperature, such as by
cooling of the air.
FIG. 3 is a general side view schematic showing an example of the
foldable electronic device 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B positioned
proximate to a docking system 300. The foldable electronic device
100 may include a plurality of portions that are foldable with
respect to each other (e.g., portions 110 and 120). The portions
may have display or non-display surfaces.
As shown, the foldable electronic device 100 may include a first
portion 110 and a second portion 120. Another example foldable
electronic device (e.g., a tri-fold type is described below with
reference to FIG. 8), however, the docking systems described herein
may be used with the foldable electronic device of FIG. 8, as well
as any other suitable foldable electronic device. The foldable
electronic device of FIGS. 1A and 1B is provided merely as one
example.
FIG. 3 also shows the general airflow 180 relationship provided to
a foldable electronic device 100 when used with illustrative
docking systems, in accordance with various examples. To solve the
previous challenges with providing airflow 380 to the hottest
electrical components 130 in a 2-in-1 convertible computer when
oriented in the fully open tablet mode, example docking systems may
include features to keep the foldable electronic device 100 open a
small angle in order to create an airflow 380 path between the
first and second portions 110, 120 so that the forced airflow 380
from a blower 330 may pass through vent opening (e.g., described in
FIG. 4A-4F) and may get to the non-display surfaces 114, 124 to
most efficiently cool the foldable electronic device 100.
FIGS. 4A-4F shown an example of an illustrative docking system 400
based on the concept of FIG. 3. FIGS. 4A and 4B show the docking
system 400 without the foldable electronic device 100, while FIGS.
4C-4F shown how the foldable electronic device may be positioned at
an engagement surface 420 of the docking system 400.
To accomplish the desirable airflow depicted in FIG. 3, the docking
system 400 may include a housing 410 having the engagement surface
420, a blower 430 (FIG. 4B), a vent opening 440, and a separator
450. The separator, 450 which will be described in further detail
below, may be provided to maintain a gap 451 (FIG. 4D) between the
first and second portions 110, 120 of the foldable electronic
device 100 when the foldable electronic device 100 is engaged by
(e.g., positioned proximate, received or supported by) the docking
system 400. The separator 450 allows airflow 480 (e.g., FIG. 3) to
pass between the first and second portions 110, 120 of the foldable
electronic device 100, without any significant compromise in form
and appearance to the user. In some examples, the engagement
surface 420 may receive the foldable electronic device 100 in a
mostly open tablet mode (e.g., less than 360 degrees), but not a
fully open tablet mode (e.g., 360 degrees). In further detail, the
engagement surface 420 may receive the foldable electronic device
in a range between 330 and 359 degrees open. To give a more
tablet-like appearance, a range between 340 and 359 degrees open
may be used. In some examples, 355 degrees and 359 degrees open may
represent a more preferred range.
The housing 410 may have an engagement surface 420 configured to
engage (e.g., interface) with a portion of the foldable electronic
device 100 when the foldable electronic device 100 is operably
engaged with the docking system 400. As shown in FIG. 4A, the
engagement surface 420 may extend from a first end portion 422 to a
second end portion 424 and include a vent opening 440.
The blower 430 may be coupled to the housing 410 to supply airflow
through the vent opening 440. The blower 430 may be any type of
airflow providing device, such as a fan or compressor. The blower
430 may be arranged in any relationship to the vent opening 440 so
that airflow is enabled to pass out of the vent openings 440 and
into the gap 451 (FIG. 4D). For example, the blower 430 may be
disposed in the housing 410, operably coupled to the housing 410 or
coupled to the exterior of the housing 410, directly or indirectly.
In the example of FIGS. 4A-4F, the airflow exiting the vent opening
440 may be directed generally parallel to an axis 104 of the
foldable electronic device (FIG. 4F).
As shown in FIG. 4D, the separator 450 may maintain separation
(e.g., gap 451) between the first portion 110 and the second
portion 120 of the foldable electronic device 100 when the foldable
electronic device 100 is operably engaged with the engagement
surface 420, creating a separation space. In some examples, the
separator 450 may be wedge-shaped. The wedge-shaped separator 450
may be arranged maintain the gap 451 in between the first and
second portions 110, 120 that is sufficient to direct airflow in
between a first portion and a second. The separator 450 may be
provided in other forms besides a mechanical wedge-shaped separator
450. For example, the separator 450 may be provided as a magnet or
other suitable means to provide separation between the first and
second portions 110, 120 may be used. In addition, the separator
450, and other separators described herein do not have to be
wedge-shaped.
The separator 450 may maintain a separation space between the first
portion and the second portion of the foldable electronic device in
a range between 1 degree and 30 degrees apart, or create a gap 451
of about 2 millimeters such as in a range between 1 millimeter and
50 millimeters (mm) apart, as well as other ranges described
herein. To provide the beneficial cooling while maintaining the
appearance of the device being in the tablet mode, a range of 1
degree and 5 degrees between the first portion 110 and the second
portion 120, or 1 mm-5 mm gap 451 may be preferred. In some
examples a preferred gap 451 at the non-folded end may be in a
range between 1.5 mm and 5 mm, or a range between 1 degree and 20
degrees.
In the example of FIGS. 4A-4F, the separator 450 may be located
proximate the first end portion 422 and the vent opening 440 may be
located in between the first end portion 422 and the second end
portion 424 of the engagement surface. For example, as shown in
FIGS. 4C-4F, the engagement surface 420 and the separator 450 are
arranged to support the foldable electronic device 100 in a
standing book mode. The standing book mode may be described as
being similar to a book that is stood up with front and back covers
of the book angled slightly apart from one another. To accommodate
the foldable electronic device 100 in the standing book mode, the
engagement surface 420 may have a first width 421 at the first end
portion 422 and a second width 423 at the second end portion 424,
and the first width 421 may be larger than the second width 423.
The first end portion 422 may be configured to support the
non-folded end of the foldable electronic device 100 and maintain
the gap (FIG. 4D, 451) between the first and second portions 110,
120 of the foldable electronic device 100. The second end portion
424 may be configured to support the folded end of the foldable
electronic device 100.
In the example of FIGS. 4A-4F, the engagement surface 420 may
include a recess 426 to accept insertion of at least a portion of
the foldable electronic device 100. The separator 450 may be
located in the recess 426 of the engagement surface 420. This is
illustrated in FIG. 4A and the close-up view of the separator 450
maintaining a separation shown in FIG. 4D. In some examples, the
separator 450 may have a first thickness 453 at a separator first
end portion 452 and a second thickness 455 at a separator second
end portion 454. In the example of FIGS. 4A-4F, the first thickness
453 is larger than the second thickness 455, with the separator
first end portion 452 arranged proximate the first end portion 422
of the engagement surface 420.
To help direct airflow in between the first and second portions
110, 120 of the foldable electronic device, a seal 460 (e.g., a
ring seal, a bead seal) may be included to reduce the airflow
leakage between the foldable electronic device 100 and walls (e.g.,
defined around the perimeter 425) of the engagement surface 420.
The seal 460 may be located along a perimeter 425 (FIG. 4A) of the
engagement surface 420. The seal 460 may be arranged around at
least a portion of the perimeter 425 or the entire perimeter 425.
The seal 460 may be arranged to re-direct stray airflow exiting the
vent opening 440 away from the perimeter 425 and into the
separation space (e.g., gap 451) between the first and second
portions 110, 120 of the foldable electronic device 100 when the
foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the engagement
surface 420. To provide a seal 460 with good function and fit, the
seal 460 may be formed of an elastomeric material or any other
suitable sealing or re-directing material.
In some examples, in addition to providing airflow for cooling, the
docking system 400 may also provide charging or data transmission
to and from the foldable electronic device 100. Although not
required, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the docking system may
include an electrical connector 490 to operably couple the foldable
electronic device 100 to the docking system 400. The electrical
connector 490 may enable charging of the foldable electronic device
100 or facilitate a transmission of data between the foldable
electronic device 100 and the docking system 400, which may
transmit the data to a computer or monitor, or any other electronic
device that is also operably coupled to the docking system 400.
As shown in FIG. 4B, to provide for air intake into the blower 430,
the housing may have intake openings 412 located on any surface of
the housing 410, such as on the bottom, top or side walls of the
housing. In the example of FIGS. 4A-F, the intake openings 412 are
shown formed in the side walls (visible in FIGS. 4A-4D and 4F).
In an example method of airflow according to the example docking
system of FIGS. 4A-F, thermal analysis for a 2-in-1 convertible
computer having dual 8-inch displays and an Intel Core M processor
was evaluated. Assuming a 2 mm gap for the airflow between the
first portion and the second portion, airflow traveled through the
separation space created by the separator 450, absorbed the heat
and left the system out of a right side, a left side and a top side
of the 2-in-1 computer. The results showed a surface temperature
profile of the 2-in-1 convertible computer that was uniform and
well within reasonable skin temperature specifications.
In the thermal analysis, the docking system design according to the
example of FIGS. 4A-F used only 1.2 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to
provide the necessary cooling, and the acoustic noise produced was
only around 32 decibels (dBA). Comparatively, thermal analysis for
a conventional docking system design resulted in a 3 CFM
requirement to reach the same performance. A larger blower was used
to meet the flow requirements and the acoustic noise was estimated
at about 42 dBA. The docking system examples described herein are
therefore much more efficient, quiet and compact than conventional
docking systems.
In other examples, such as the example of FIG. 5, the airflow
exiting the vent opening may be generally non-parallel to the
foldable electronic device. FIG. 5 shows a side view schematic of
another illustrative docking system, showing the foldable
electronic device of FIGS. 1A and 1B operably engaged with the
docking system, in accordance with at least one example.
Like the example of FIGS. 4A-4F, the example of FIG. 5 may include
a housing, a blower 530, a vent opening 540 and a separator 550.
The separator of FIG. 5 may have a first height 556 at a first end
portion 552 of the separator 550 and a second height 558 at a
second end portion 554 of the separator 550. In the example of FIG.
5, the first height 556 and the second height 558 may be different.
The first height 556 may be greater than the second height 558 as
shown, or the second height 558 may be greater than the first
height 556, depending on the desired airflow characteristics.
The vent opening 540 in the example of FIG. 5 may be formed into
the geometry of the separator 550. However, in some examples, the
vent opening 540 may not be part of the separator 550 but may be
located proximate or adjacent to the separator 550, such as along
at least a portion of a length of the separator 550. The
arrangement of the vent opening 540 in the example of FIG. 5 may
result in airflow from the vent opening 540 in a non-parallel
direction to an axis 104 of the folding electronic device 100. One
benefit of the non-parallel flow is to direct airflow up and away
from the folded (e.g., hinged) end of the electronic device 100.
Other examples similar to FIG. 5 may include a separator of varying
height, like the example of FIG. 5, but may include vent openings
that are shaped to extend through the separator parallel to the
foldable electronic device such that the vent opening still provide
airflow that is generally upward and parallel to the foldable
electronic device, similar to the example of FIGS. 4A-4F.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view schematic of another illustrative
docking system 600, in accordance with at least one example. In the
example of FIG. 6, the docking system 600 may include a
wedge-shaped separator 650 having vent openings 640 formed therein.
The separator 650 may be arranged to extend along most of the
length of the foldable electronic device (e.g., 100) that is to be
used with the docking system 600. The separator 650 may be formed
in a wedge shape, and as shown, the separator 650 may include one
or more vent openings 640 formed in the top and or sides of the
wedge-shaped separator 650 as shown. The separator 650 may include
magnets or other features to stably support the foldable electronic
device (e.g., 100) on the docking system 600.
FIG. 7A is a top view schematic of another illustrative engagement
surface 720, in accordance with at least one example. FIG. 7B is a
general schematic of a cross-section along line A-A' of FIG. 7A,
showing the foldable electronic device 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B
positioned on a docking system 700 in a tent mode orientation, in
accordance with at least one example.
The example docking system of FIG. 7B includes the engagement
surface 720 of FIG. 7A that is arranged to accept insertion of the
foldable electronic device 100 in the tent mode, with a folded end
106 located distal from the docking system 700. In the example of
FIG. 7B, a separator 750 may be wedge-shaped with the lower portion
752 of the separator 750 having a first width 753 (FIG. 7A) and the
tip 754 of the separator 750 having a second width 755 (FIG. 7A).
In the present example, the first width 753 may be wider than the
second width 755 of the separator 750. Although in some examples,
the second width 755 may be wider than the first width 753.
As shown in, FIG. 7B, a seal 760 may be provided along the
separator 750. In the present example, the separator 750 may
function both to provide a gap (e.g., like gap 451 of FIG. 4D), and
to act as an airflow director. The seal 760 may be similar to the
seal 460 and function in a similar manner to the example of FIGS.
4A-F, except that the seal 760 may be arranged along the separator
750, as opposed to (or in addition to) the perimeter as shown in
FIG. 4A.
As shown in the combination of FIGS. 7A and 7B, the engagement
surface 720 may be formed as a recess 726 to receive at least a
portion of the foldable electronic device 100. The vent opening 740
may be disposed on the separator 750 that is provided in the form
of an airflow director that extends from a base 728 of the
engagement surface 720 into the recess 726.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example of a tri-fold foldable
electronic device that may be used with illustrative docking
systems disclosed herein. FIG. 8 shows the foldable electronic
device is depicted in a 180 degree open mode with all three
portions of the device arranged generally in side by side alignment
with each other. The foldable electronic device 800 may include a
plurality of portions including a first portion 810, a second
portion 820 and a third portion 830 connected by fold portions 802
and 806. The foldable electronic device 800 may also include a
first display surface 812, a second display surface 822 and third
display surface 832. Opposite of the display surfaces may be first,
second and third non-display surfaces 814, 824 and 834, as
shown.
FIG. 9 is a top view schematic of an illustrative engagement
surface 920 showing an illustrative positioning for a foldable
electronic device, in accordance with at least one example. The
engagement surfaces 920, 1020 and 1120 of the examples of FIGS.
9-11 may include the characteristics of the docking systems
described previously, and FIGS. 4A-4F in particular. The examples
of FIGS. 9-11 include additional features that may be particularly
well suited to being used with the tri-fold electronic device shown
in FIG. 8. For example, each of the examples of FIGS. 9, 10 and 11
may include a second separator 950b, 1050b and 1150b, respectively.
The second separator 950b, 1050b, 1150b may separate the second
portion 820 and a third portion 830 of the plurality of portions
when the foldable electronic device 800 is operably engaged with
any of the engagement surfaces 920, 1020 and 1120.
As shown in FIG. 9, the foldable electronic device 800 may be
positioned at the engagement surface 920 and routed in a zig-zag
arrangement in relation to a first separator 950a and a second
separator 950b. In some examples, and in the example shown, each
separator 950a, 950b may have their own corresponding vent opening
940a, 940b, but in some examples, a centrally-located vent
opening(s) may also be provided that may supply air in place of
both vent openings 940a, 940b.
FIG. 10 is a top view schematic of a surface 1020 showing an
illustrative positioning for a foldable electronic device 800, in
accordance with at least one example. In this example, the
separators 1050a and 1050b are similar to the separators of FIG. 9.
Additional vent opening 1040 are provided such that together the
vent opening 1040 may be arranged to distribute airflow to all the
non-display surfaces of the foldable electronic device 800.
FIG. 11 is a top view schematic of a third illustrative engagement
surface 1120 showing an illustrative positioning for a foldable
electronic device 800, in accordance with at least one example.
FIG. 11 combines the separator and vent opening features of FIGS. 9
and 10, and further includes vent opening 1140 located in the
separators 1150a, 1150b.
A docking system for a foldable electronic device according to any
of the examples previously set forth may include: a means for
receiving, at an engagement surface, at least a portion of the
foldable electronic device in a standing book mode (FIGS. 4C-4F) or
a tent mode (FIG. 7B). The docking systems may also include a means
for separating and the means for separating maintains a separation
space between a first portion and a second portion of the plurality
of portions as described with respect to the examples set forth
herein. The means for separating may be wedge-shaped. The means for
separating may maintain a separation space between the first
portion and the second portion of the foldable electronic device in
a range between 0.5 degrees and 30 degrees apart, or create a gap
of 1 mm and 50 mm apart, as well as other ranges described herein.
To provide the beneficial cooling while maintaining the appearance
of the device being in the tablet mode, a range of 0.5 degrees and
5 degrees, or 1 mm-5 mm apart may be preferred. In some examples a
gap at the non-folded end between 1.5 mm and 5 mm may be
preferred.
In further detail, the means for receiving may receive the foldable
electronic device in a range between 330 and 359 degrees open. To
give a more tablet-like appearance, a range between 340 and 359
degrees open may be used. In some examples, 355 degrees and 359
degrees open may represent a more preferred range.
The means for receiving may be configured to receive the foldable
electronic device in a mostly open mode, in a range in between 85
percent open and 99 percent open relative to a completely closed
orientation, and more preferably between 95 percent and 99 percent
open.
Cooling may be provided to the foldable electronic device by a
means for blowing air into the separation space between the first
portion and the second portion.
The means for separating may maintain the separation space such
that a separation distance between two surfaces of the foldable
electronic device at a first end portion of the engagement surface
in a range between 1 mm and 50 mm, or more preferably between 1 mm
and 20 mm, and most preferably be in a range between 1 mm and 10
mm. To provide the beneficial cooling while maintaining the
appearance of the device being in the tablet mode, a range 1 mm-5
mm apart may be preferred. In some example, a gap at the non-folded
end between 2 mm and 5 mm may be preferred to give the appearance
that the tablet is closed while allowing suitable airflow.
FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1200 of cooling a
foldable electronic device with a docking system. The foldable
electronic device may be the foldable electronic device 100 of
FIGS. 1A and 1B, or the foldable electronic device 800 of FIG. 8.
The docking systems used with the method may be any of FIGS. 3,
4A-4F, 5, 6, 7A-7B and 9-11.
The method 1200 of cooling the foldable electronic device, may
include cooling a foldable electronic device that has a plurality
of portions that are foldable with respect to each other.
Operation 1202 of cooling the foldable electronic device may
include receiving, at an engagement surface, the foldable
electronic device. The foldable electronic device having at least a
first portion and a second portion as shown and described with
reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.
In an example of the receiving operation 1202, the foldable
electronic device being received includes two display surfaces and
two non-display surfaces. Operation 1202 may include receiving the
two non-display surfaces of the foldable electronic device in a
generally open mode tablet mode where the two non-display surfaces
generally face and oppose each other, and the two display surfaces
generally face away from each other, and wherein the non-display
surfaces are sandwiched in between the two display surfaces.
In some examples of the receiving operation 1202, receiving the
foldable electronic device may include receiving the foldable
electronic device in a mostly open tablet mode, in a range in
between 85 percent open and 99 percent open. In some examples,
receiving the foldable electronic device may include receiving the
foldable electronic device in a range between 350 degrees and 359.5
degrees open.
In addition to receiving the foldable electronic device, operation
1204 may include maintaining a separation space between the first
portion and the second portion received at the engagement surface.
In some examples of operation 1204, maintain the separation space
may be accomplished by a separator, such as a wedge-shaped
separator. Maintaining the separation space may include maintaining
a separation space between the two non-display surfaces of the
foldable electronic device that are generally facing each
other.
In some examples, maintaining the separation space may include
maintaining two surfaces of the foldable electronic device apart in
a range between 0.5 degrees and 5 degrees apart. In some examples,
maintaining the separation space may include maintaining a
separation distance between two surfaces of the foldable electronic
device at a first end portion of the engagement surface, wherein
the separation distance is in a range between 1 mm and 50 mm, and
other ranges described herein.
Operation 1206 may include receiving presence information that the
foldable electronic device is at the engagement surface. The
presence information may be determined by a presence sensor, or by
an input from the user, such as turning on a power switch. In some
examples the presence information could be determined by the
foldable electronic device being operably coupled to an electrical
connector of the docking system (e.g., 490, FIG. 4A or 4B).
In response to receiving presence information that the foldable
electronic device is at the engagement surface, operation 1208 may
include blowing air into the separation space between the first
portion and the second portion.
The docking systems shown and described with reference to FIGS. 3,
4A-F, 5-7 and 9-11 may be operated by at least one non-transitory
machine-readable medium including instructions to operate, for
example, one of the docking systems previously described, or any
other suitable docking system. The docking system may be operated
to cool a foldable electronic device having a plurality of portions
that are foldable with respect to each other, such as the foldable
electronic devices described with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B and
8.
The docking system may include instructions, such as instructions
stored on one or more memory, that when executed by a processor,
may cause the processor to receive presence information regarding a
presence of the foldable electronic device at an engagement
surface.
As previously described in various examples of the docking system,
the engagement surface may have a separator to maintain a
separation space between a first portion and a second portion when
the foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the
engagement surface. The docking system may also include a vent
opening that is arranged to direct airflow into the separation
space to cool the foldable electronic device.
The instructions may, based on the presence information, operate a
blower to blow air through the vent opening and into the separation
space between the first portion and the second portion to provide
cooling to the foldable electronic device.
In some examples, the instructions may cause the docking system to
receive temperature information related to the foldable electronic
device and, based on the temperature information, to control
operation of the blower. The temperature information may be
received from a sensor, such as but not limited to, a temperature
sensor on the docking system or a temperature sensor on the
electronic device. Temperature information may also be derived from
performance information related to the foldable electronic device
that may be used to provide an estimated temperature based on a
correlation between temperature and performance.
In some examples, the instructions may further cause the docking
system to receive blower information, and based on the blower
information, to control operation of the blower. Blower information
could include, for example, a temperature of the blower, a speed of
the blower, current draw of the blower, or an overload alert
regarding the blower.
In some examples the instructions may further cause the docking
system to electrically connect the docking system to the foldable
electronic device. For example, if the docking system includes an
electrical connector (as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B), when the
foldable electronic device becomes operably coupled to the docking
system, the instructions may cause the electrical connection to
become operable and an exchange of data or power to occur, such as
a charging the foldable electronic device or share data between the
foldable electronic device and another computer that is also
operably coupled to the docking system.
Various Notes and Examples
To better illustrate the method and apparatuses disclosed herein, a
non-limiting list of embodiments is provided here.
Example 1 is a docking system for a foldable electronic device, the
foldable electronic device having a plurality of portions that are
foldable with respect to each other, the docking system comprising:
a housing having an engagement surface to interface with a portion
of the foldable electronic device when the foldable electronic
device is operably engaged with the docking system, the engagement
surface including: a vent opening arranged to direct airflow in
between a first portion and a second portion of the plurality of
portions when the foldable electronic device is operably engaged
with the engagement surface; a separator to maintain separation
between the first portion and the second portion when the foldable
electronic device is operably engaged with the engagement surface;
and a blower coupled to the housing to supply airflow through the
vent opening.
In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes
wherein the separator is wedge shaped.
In Example 3, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-2
optionally include wherein the engagement surface extends from a
first end portion to a second end portion, and wherein the
separator is located proximate the first end portion, and the vent
opening is located in between the first end portion and the second
end portion.
In Example 4, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-3
optionally include wherein the separator comprises the vent
opening.
In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-4
optionally include wherein the engagement surface has a first width
at a first end portion and a second width at a second end portion,
and wherein the first width is larger than at the second width.
In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-5
optionally includes wherein the engagement surface receives the
foldable electronic device in a mostly open mode, in a range
between 85-99 percent open.
In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6
optionally include wherein the engagement surface is arranged to
accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a standing
book mode.
In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7
optionally include wherein the engagement surface is arranged to
accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a tent
mode.
In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8
optionally include wherein the separator is located in a recess of
the engagement surface.
In Example 10, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-9 optionally include wherein the separator comprises a separator
vent opening.
In Example 11, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-10 optionally include wherein the engagement surface further
comprises a seal around at least a portion of a perimeter of the
engagement surface.
In Example 12, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-11 optionally include a second separator to separate the second
portion and a third portion of the plurality of portions when the
foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the engagement
surface.
In Example 13, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-12 optionally include wherein the engagement surface further
comprises an electrical connector to operably couple the docking
system to the foldable electronic device.
In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-13 optionally include the docking system further comprising a
seal, and wherein the seal is arranged to re-direct stray airflow
exiting the vent opening away from the perimeter and into a
separation space between the plurality of portions of the foldable
electronic device when the foldable electronic device is operably
engaged with the engagement surface.
In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-14 optionally include wherein the vent opening directs airflow in
a direction parallel to an axis of the foldable electronic
device.
In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-15 optionally include wherein the vent opening directs airflow in
a direction non-parallel to an axis of the foldable electronic
device.
In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-16 optionally include wherein the separator has a first height at
a separator first end portion and a second height at a separator
second end portion, and wherein the first height and the second
height are different.
In Example 18, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-17 optionally include wherein the engagement surface extends from
a first end portion to a second end portion, and wherein the
engagement surface comprises a recess to accept insertion of at
least a portion of the foldable electronic device.
In Example 19, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-18 optionally include wherein the separator has a first thickness
at a separator first end portion and a second thickness at a
separator second end portion, and wherein the first thickness is
larger than the second thickness.
In Example 20, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-19 optionally include wherein the engagement surface has a first
width at a first end portion and second width at a second end
portion, and wherein the first width is larger than the second
width, and wherein the separator first end portion is arranged
proximate the first end portion of the engagement surface.
In Example 21, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
1-20 optionally include wherein the engagement surface comprises a
recess to accept insertion of at least a portion of the foldable
electronic device, and wherein the vent opening is disposed on an
airflow director that extends from a base of the engagement surface
into the recess.
In Example 22, the subject matter of Example 21 optionally includes
wherein the airflow director comprises a seal.
Example 23 is a method of docking a foldable electronic device, the
foldable electronic device having a plurality of portions that are
foldable with respect to each other, the method comprising:
receiving, at an engagement surface, the foldable electronic
device, wherein receiving the foldable electronic device having a
plurality of portions includes maintaining a separation space
between at least a first portion and a second portion of the
plurality of portions; and blowing air into the separation space
between the first portion and the second portion.
In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 optionally includes
wherein maintaining the separation space between the first portion
and the second portion is provided by a separator.
In Example 25, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-24 optionally include wherein maintaining the separation space
between the first portion and the second portion is provided by a
wedge-shaped separator.
In Example 26, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-25 optionally include wherein the foldable electronic device
comprises two display surfaces and two non-display surfaces, and
wherein receiving, at the engagement surface, the foldable
electronic device, includes receiving the two non-display surfaces
of the foldable electronic device in a generally open mode where
the two non-display surfaces generally face and oppose each other,
and the two display surfaces generally face away from each other,
and wherein the non-display surfaces are sandwiched in between the
two display surfaces.
In Example 27, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-26 optionally include wherein maintaining the separation space
comprises maintaining a separation space between two non-display
surfaces of the foldable electronic device that are generally
facing each other.
In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-27 optionally includes receiving the foldable electronic device
in a mostly open mode, in a range between 85 and 99 percent
open.
In Example 29, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-28 optionally includes receiving the foldable electronic device
in a mostly open mode, in a range between 330-359 degrees open.
In Example 30, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-29 optionally includes wherein maintaining a separation distance
between two surface of the foldable electronic device at a first
end portion of the engagement surface, wherein the separation
distance is in a range between 1 millimeter and 50 millimeters.
In Example 31, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
23-30 optionally includes wherein maintaining the separation space
comprises maintaining two surfaces of the foldable electronic
device apparat in a range between 1 degree and 30 degrees
apart.
Example 32 is at least one computer-readable medium comprising
instructions to perform any of the methods of Examples 23-31.
Example 33 is a docking system comprising means for performing any
of the methods of Examples 23-31.
Example 34 is a docking system for a foldable electronic device,
the foldable electronic device having a plurality of portions that
are foldable with respect to each other, the docking system
comprising: means for receiving, at an engagement surface, at least
a portion of the foldable electronic device; a means for
separating, wherein the means for separating maintains a separation
space between a first portion and a second portion of the plurality
of portions; and means for blowing air into the separation space
between the first portion and the second portion.
In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally includes
wherein the means for separating is wedge shaped.
In Example 36, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-35 optionally includes wherein the means for separating
maintains a separation between the first portion and the second
portion of the foldable electronic device in a range between 1
degree and 30 degrees apart.
In Example 37, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-36 optionally includes wherein the means for receiving is
arranged to accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a
standing book mode.
In Example 38, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-37 optionally includes wherein the means for receiving is
arranged to accept insertion of the foldable electronic device in a
tent mode.
In Example 39, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-38 optionally includes wherein the means for receiving receives
the foldable electronic device in a mostly open mode, in a range in
between 85 percent open and 99 percent open.
In Example 40, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-39 optionally includes wherein the means for receiving receives
the foldable electronic device in a range between 330 degrees and
359 degrees open.
In Example 41, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-40 optionally includes wherein the means for separating
maintains the separation space such that a separation distance
between two surfaces of the foldable electronic device at a first
end portion of the engagement surface is in a range between 1
millimeter and 50 millimeters.
In Example 42, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
34-41 optionally includes wherein maintaining the separation space
maintains two surfaces of the foldable electronic device apart in a
range between 1 degree and 30 degrees apart.
Example 43 is at least one machine-readable medium including
instructions to operate a docking system for a foldable electronic
device, the foldable electronic device having a plurality of
portions that are foldable with respect to each other, and the
instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
receive presence information regarding a presence of the foldable
electronic device at an engagement surface, the engagement surface
having a separator to maintain a separation space between a first
portion and a second portion of the plurality of portions when the
foldable electronic device is operably engaged with the engagement
surface, and a vent opening that is arranged to direct airflow into
the separation space; and operate a blower, based on the presence
information, to blow air through the vent opening and into the
separation space between the first portion and the second
portion.
In Example 44, the subject matter of Example 43 optionally includes
the instructions further causing the docking system to receive
temperature information related to the foldable electronic device
and, based on the temperature information, to control operation of
the blower.
In Example 45, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
43-44 optionally include the instructions further causing the
docking system to receive blower information, and based on the
blower information, to control operation of the blower.
In Example 46, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
43-45 optionally include the instructions further causing the
docking system to electrically connect to the foldable electronic
device.
In Example 47, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
43-46 optionally include the instructions further causing the
docking system to charge the foldable electronic device.
In Example 48, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples
43-47 optionally include the instructions further causing the
docking system to share data between the foldable electronic device
and another computer that is operably coupled to the docking
system.
The above detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. Such examples may include elements in addition to
those shown or described. However, examples in which only those
elements shown or described are provided are also contemplated.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in
patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of
any other instances or usages of "at least one" or "one or more."
In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a nonexclusive
or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B but not A," and
"A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms
"including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English
equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein."
Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first." "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not
restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or
more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other.
Other examples may be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the
art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided
to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the
technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that
it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of
the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various
features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This
should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed
feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter
may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed
example. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into
the Detailed Description as examples or examples, with each claim
standing on its own as a separate example, and it is contemplated
that such examples may be combined with each other in various
combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *